Favourite

Ex Nihilo 2017 EDP

U ££

French Affair

by Quentin Bisch

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Ex Nihilo French Affair is an Eau de Parfum launched in 2017, created by Quentin Bisch. French Affair opens with Bergamot, Violet Leaf, and Litchi, settles into a heart of Angelica, Cedar, and Rose, and dries down to a base of Vetiver, Patchouli, and Oakmoss. Ex Nihilo's French Affair carries a Favourite verdict, a woody-led wear.

French Affair is a divisive beast: a modern chypre that’s either a masterpiece of sophisticated, earthy allure or a musty old house, depending on who you ask. Brace yourself for compliments, or complaints.
  • Sophisticated
  • Edgy
  • Classic
  • Bold
  • Mysterious
French Affair Eau de Parfum bottle

Profile

Composition

Timeline

Showing: Overall Blend

Accords

Woody
100%
Earthy
84%
Mossy
65%
Aromatic
60%
Rose
55%
Patchouli
52%

Performance

Longevity
Moderate (4-6h)
Projection
Moderate
Intensity
Moderate

Mood

Mood Energising
Calming
Character Playful
Serious
Sentiment Uplifting
Brooding

When To Wear

Best Seasons

Best For:
Spring Fall
Also Works:
Winter

Built for the cooler edges of the year - autumn and spring pair best.

Best Occasions

Best For:
Date Formal
Also Works:
Casual

Given its strong sillage and impressive longevity often highlighted by reviewers, it's best reserved for social outings where it won't overwhelm. While it has an elegant side suitable for formal events, its unique, earthy character also makes it intriguing for dates and more curated casual settings.

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Layer

Wear two at once. See what layers well with French Affair Eau de Parfum - the blends worth trying, and how each one scores.

Complement

Round out the rotation. See what complements French Affair Eau de Parfum - fragrances that pair with it, worn side by side.

Where to buy

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About

Opens with a vibrant, slightly tart burst of litchi and bergamot, underscored by the green chill of violet leaf. This fresh introduction quickly deepens into a complex heart, where a clean, elegant rose meets the dry, woody embrace of cedar and Angelica's subtle herbal spice. The journey concludes with a rich, grounding base of damp oakmoss, earthy vetiver, and robust patchouli, creating a scent that's both ancient and undeniably modern.